Do you need a portable chicken tractor that can protect your flock from predators without destroying your lawn? Well, you came to the right place because we curated the best chicken tractor list just for you.
In this article, we’ll share with you the following:
- Benefits of using a movable chicken coop with a run
- Review of our top picks for best chicken tractors
- Pros and cons of each chicken tractor design
If you’re looking for a chicken tractor that offers protection, durability, and aesthetics without breaking the bank, this guide is for you.
But before that, we’ll introduce you to the basics of chicken tractors first and illustrate how it works.
Chicken Tractor Basic- How It Works?
Simply put, a chicken tractor is a moving coop with a chicken run that provides space for the chicks and hens to free-range. It contains everything your flock needs, including the food, nesting box, and roosting perches.
It earned its name “tractor” because the scratching movement of the chickens quickly depletes the ground and gradually loosens the top inch or so of soil.
So, how can you benefit from utilizing a chicken tractor?
Benefits of Using Chicken Tractor
One of the downsides of a stationary coop is chickens may overgraze on the area where the coop was built on. So, the flock can longer access fresh grasses, which are essential for them.
Additionally, your chicks will be prone to flying predators if their coop doesn’t have an enclosed run.
Good thing, chicken tractors were innovated to solve these problems.
Here are other advantages offered by chicken tractors.
Chicken Tractors Keep Your Hens and Chicks Safe from Predators
One of the primary purposes of a chicken tractor is to protect the flock from predators such as hawks and owls.
But there are some things to consider to ensure your movable pen is truly safe.
It must have a secure and durable coop and a chicken run enclosed with mesh to keep the predators away efficiently.
If you have loose sandy soil in your area, predators like skunks that dig under the tractors will be a problem.
They may not kill adult chickens, but they usually eat eggs and prey on baby chicks.
If that’s the case, you’ll need to position your chicken tractor on flat ground. Then, it would be best if you put large rocks, position boards, and wire around it.
Additionally, you have to ensure that the tractor is in good contact with the soil all the way around.
That’s to help keep predators out and secure your flock.
Chicken Tractors Controls and Prevents Property Damage
Having a chicken tractor can help you contain your flock in one place and prevent them from exploring and destroying your neighbor’s properties.
Your flower gardens, veggies, and other properties will be safe as well from the attacks of your feathery friends.
It Provides Direct Access to the Grass and Soil
Chickens naturally love to scratch the dirt. Bugs, grass, and weed seeds are among their favorite foods. If you’d make their environment as natural as possible, they’ll also become healthier.
So, providing a chicken tractor that offers them a privilege to access grass and soil and works well with their natural behavior can help them thrive.
Chickens Trim the Grass and Feed on Weeds
The biggest reason to own a movable coop is that it provides free lawn care! The hens will graze the grass and weeds’ tips, eliminate insects, and fertilize the garden.
Therefore, you won’t have to spend time and money on trimming the grass anymore.
The Grass Can Have Time to Regrow
If your chickens have constant access to the same area of your yard or pasture, they will soon overgraze it. As a result, the weeds and the ground will be bare.
But if you give your grass enough time to recover after grazing, it will begin to thrive, thanks to the minerals and nutrients in the chicken dung. Additionally, your chickens will have more to eat as your grasses improve.
The Manure Will Go Directly Where It’s Needed
With a chicken tractor, you won’t have to shovel the manure and clean the coop frequently.
That’s because you can put it into the area that needs to be fertilized, and the manure will land where it’s needed.
Rats Won’t Be a Problem
Rats are attracted to the constant source of grain and water in the chicken coop. But they are usually not a concern in chicken tractors.
The chicken tractor just does not stay in one spot long enough for rats to become an issue unless you use the deep mulch strategy.
It’s Portable and Versatile
You can utilize this to benefit both your yard and garden. It’s simple to use and store in various locations.
In the summer, you can place them where they will receive natural shade from trees. You can put them south of a barn or house in the winter to provide a natural windbreak.
Best Chicken Tractors For Your Chickens
Most handy people prefer to DIY a chicken tractor to cut the cost. But if you’re not a DIY-er and you don’t have the luxury of time for this type of project, here are the best chicken tractors that you can choose from:
Top 1 Best Chicken Tractor- Dinah Chicken Coop With Wheels and a Run
Topping this best chicken tractor list is the heavy-duty and well-designed Dinah Chicken Coop.
This product features an opulent red wooden finish in its coop, roof, and frames.
It comes with two wheels, a chicken run, roosting bars, and a pull-out tray for chicken manures.
Your chicken tractor will be out in your backyard and exposed to harsh weather.
But with this product, you won’t have to worry about storms, extreme weather changes, and termite attacks.
Below are the top reasons why.
Features of the best chicken tractor:
Termite and weather-resistant woods
The wood used in this coop is treated with zinc borate to resist damage from termites and fungal decays.
On top of that, advanced wax formulas, adhesive resins topped with resin-saturated, water-resistant overlay were applied into the woods.
These are the main reasons why it ranks first in our best chicken tractor list.
You can rest assured that it can endure the wear and tear imposed by moisture and extreme temperatures.
Secure enclosure
This chicken tractor is enclosed with a hardware mesh that helps keep your flock safe from determined predators.
Exterior nesting bins
Of course, the front-runner in our list for best chicken tractors comes with an exterior nesting bin. And it’s easily accessible during egg harvesting season.
Handle and wheels for easy maneuverability
What we like more about this coop is it comes with handles and wheels that offer hassle-free maneuverability.
Downsides of this chicken tractor
Hefty price
The disadvantage, though, is that it’s expensive for a chicken tractor that only houses 2 to 4 chickens.
Locks need an additional upgrade.
Additionally, the chicken run door lock and the coop’s window need a minor upgrade for your chicken’s security.
Other than this, we haven’t seen anything worrisome in its structure.
Pros:
- Secure and durable coop and run
- Provides roasting bar & nesting bins
- Protected from termites and fungal decay
- Can survive harsh weather conditions
Cons:
- Hefty price
- Small capacity
- Locks need upgrade
- If this chicken tractor doesn’t suit your taste or is too pricey, here’s another option for you.
Additional Information:
- Overall Dimension: 42” H x 82” W x 32” D
- Nesting Box Dimension: 10” H x 12” W x 14” D
- Overall Square Feet: 18 square feet
- Roosting Bar Length – Side to Side: 18”
- Overall Product Weight: 175 lb.
- Capacity: 2 to 4 chickens
- Frame Material: Wood
- Additional Tools Required for Assembly: Power Drill, Hammer, Measuring Tape
Conclusion:
If you have the means and you want a highly durable chicken tractor with excellent mobility features, this is perfect for you.
Top 2 Best Chicken Tractor- Double Chicken Coop
Sitting on the second spot is this chicken tractor with a dual chicken coop and stunning wood finish.
It doesn’t have mobility wheels, but it still deserves to be on this best chicken tractor list.
It’s an excellent deal for its price, considering its well-designed structure and awesome features.
Features of this chicken tractor:
Dual chicken coop and nesting bins
What we like the most about this chicken tractor are the dual coop and nesting bin design. It accommodates more chickens without being heavy on the pocket.
Comes with many freebies
What makes this product even more exciting are the freebies which include feeders, waterers, and removable trays. There’s also a roosting bar where your chickens can perch on.
Secure design
You won’t have to worry about predators since it’s enclosed with a wire mesh and a reliable locking system.
Removable Trays
Collecting chicken manure under the coop is hassle-free since it also comes with removable trays.
Disadvantages of this chicken tractor
Doesn’t come with wheels
The disadvantage of this chicken tractor is it doesn’t come with wheels, but it’s more lightweight than the previous one.
But still, it will take at least two people to install and move this tractor since it weighs around 108 pounds.
Not termite-resistant
Additionally, since this chicken tractor isn’t treated with LP SmartGuard, it’s not termite-resistant. And although it’s weather-resistant, it not as durable as the previous product.
Pros:
- Elegant wood finish
- Dual coop design
- Affordable price
- High capacity coop
Cons:
- No wheels
- Not termite resistant
Additional Information:
- Overall dimension: 42.5” H x 144” W x 27.5” D
- Total Area in Square Feet: 25.6 square feet
- Overall Product Weight: 108.8 lb.
- Capacity: 8 to 12 chickens
- Frame Material: Wood
Conclusion:
If you want a chicken tractor that offers elegant design, reliable quality, and more massive space for around 9 to 12 chickens at a cheaper price, this is suitable for you. But the absence of wheels is also worth considering.
Top 3 Best Chicken Tractor- Bayer Chicken Coop with Run
Sitting on the third spot on our list is this minimalistic but spacious chicken tractor.
Its structural design looks similar to the top 1 in this best chicken tractor list. This product also comes with two wheels for easier mobility.
But what sets it apart from that is its simple but appealing wood finish and a larger accommodation at a more affordable cost.
Features of this chicken tractor:
Heavy-duty galvanized wire
It utilizes a durable galvanized wire in its enclosure to protect your flock from predators. So, there’s nothing to worry about your chickens’ security.
Wheels for easy maneuverability
Moving this chicken tractor into places is made easy, thanks to the wheels designed for better mobility.
Accessible nesting box
Its coop features a very accessible nesting box on the side, so harvesting eggs is easy and quick.
Large capacity
This coop with a run can accommodate 4 to 6 chickens, making it worth the cost.
The downside of this chicken tractor:
Not termite-resistant
Like the second chicken tractor in this list, the wood used in this product is not treated with SmartGuard. So, it’s not termite-resistant and might not last for years if constantly exposed to harsh weather conditions.
Pros:
- Secure enclosure
- Portable design
- Easy to clean
- Comes with a nesting box and removable tray
Cons:
- Not termite-resistant
Additional Information:
- Overall dimension: 46.25” H x 98” W x 38.5” D
- Coop excluding nesting box: 78.75″ W
- Nesting box dimension: 16.25” H x 13.75” W x 30” D
- Overall Square Feet: 26 square feet
- Overall Product Weight: 69.5 lb.
- Frame material: wood
- Capacity: 4 to 6 chickens
Conclusion:
If you prefer a chicken tractor with good mobility features, cozy design, and reliable quality at a budget-friendly price, this is for you.
Top 4 Best Chicken Tractor- Bodnar Chicken Coop
This entry has to be one of the most uniquely designed among the best chicken tractors.
The red wooden finish and white frames complement very well, and it has two levels. The top has a spacious coop where chickens can rest and hide, while the bottom level is where your birds can explore and graze.
Additionally, there’s a ladder that connects the two and a private space for sleeping for your flock.
It doesn’t have wheels on it, but we believe its beautiful design and features can make up for that.
Features of this chicken tractor:
Plastic removable tray
Similar to other chicken coops in this list, it comes with a removable tray. But the difference is it’s made of plastic and not wood. Thus it’s easier to clean.
Nesting box
Although not indicated on the website, this chicken tractor does come with a nesting box where your hens can lay their eggs.
Wire mesh
You have nothing to worry about your flock’s protection from predators since the mesh enclosure can provide sufficient protection.
Downsides:
Comes with no wheels
It’s easy to tell, what’s missing in this chicken tractor, and that is the wheels. Therefore, moving it is a bit challenging. You’ll need to have 1 to 2 people to help you move this chicken tractor because it weighs around 137 lbs.
High price
This chicken tractor is more expensive than the previous two options because it has no locking system and roosting bars.
Pros:
- Easily accessible for cleaning
- Spacious for five chickens
- Comes with a pull-out tray
- Enclosed by a wire mesh
Cons:
- No wheels and locking system included
- Expensive price tag
Additional Information:
- Dimensions: 60” H x 63” W x 48” D
- Total Size in Square Feet: 21 square feet
- Overall Product Weight: 137 lb.
- Chicken Capacity: 5
- Frame Material Details: Solid Fir Wood
Conclusion:
If you’re in need of a large coop with an enclosed pen at the bottom that can cater to about 5 chickens, it’s also a practical option. However, it’s more costly than the 2 previous chicken tractors.
Top 5 Best Chicken Tractor- Bartholomew Chicken Coop
Now, we’re down to our final pick. Completing this best chicken tractor list is this cozy chicken tractor.
It’s not as flashy as other tractors in this list. But its structure exudes a modern vibe despite its wood construction. Although there are some BUTS with this product, it still deserves a spot for the best chicken tractors list because of the following offerings.
Features:
Metal pull-out tray
Cleaning up the manures on the coop is easy because it also features a removable metal tray.
Two nesting boxes
What we like about this tractor is it offers two nesting boxes for hens. And that’d be great if you’d put four chickens inside the coop.
Private Sleep Space
It also offers a cozy sleeping space for your chickens that’ll make them comfortable and warm.
Affordable cost
This chicken tractor is the most budget-friendly on our list. If you want to provide a safe and beautiful home for your flock without breaking the bank, this is for you.
Downsides:
No wheels included
Just like the previous tractor, we’ve learned that it has no wheels at all. However, since it’s lightweight and measures around 59.5 lb, you should be able to move it by yourself or at least with one person’s help.
Thinner wood materials
As mentioned earlier, it’s the most affordable chicken tractor on this list, and it’s easy to see why. The wood is not as not very thick, but it should be firm enough when fixed together.
And although it’s weather-resistant, it may not last as long as the SmartGuard treated product.
Pros:
- Provides two nesting boxes
- Has a removable metal tray
- Comes with a secure enclosure
Cons:
- No wheels and roosting bar included
- Thinner wood materials
Additional Information:
- Dimension: 40.5” H x 42” W x 64.3” D
- Total Area in Square Feet: 19 square feet
- Overall Product Weight: 59.5 lb.
- Chicken Capacity: 4
- Frame Material: Wood
Conclusion:
If you’re looking for a chicken tractor that’s easy on the pocket but still cozy and comfortable for about 4 hens, this is the most affordable option for you.
FAQ About Chicken Tractors Answered
How much does it cost to build a chicken tractor?
A chicken tractor can cost around $250 to as much as $1,000, depending on the size of the tractor, the types of materials used, and their durability.
How big should a chicken tractor be?
There are two factors to consider when answering this question- the breed of the chicken and the size of your coop.
But the rule of thumb is to provide four square feet of room for each laying hen or an average-sized chicken weighing about 6 to 10 lbs.
On the other hand, the bantams and broiler need two square feet of space.
Therefore, If you have around 8 layers or sixteen broilers, you’ll need a 32 square foot chicken coop.
Then, for the free-range area or chicken run, you’ll need an additional space of 8 to 10 square feet space per large fowl chicken.
But if you’ll be putting bantam chickens into it, 4 square feet of space will do for each bird.
Can chickens live in a chicken tractor?
A chicken tractor contains everything your flock needs from food to a nesting box, a roosting perch, water, fresh green grass, and soil.
So, YES, a chicken can live in it. In fact, these movable tractors are designed to make your flock thrive while providing a safe home for them.
How often should I move the chicken tractor?
When you move the chicken tractor to a new location, the grass beneath it has time to heal and regrow, ensuring no bare spots remain. The chicken tractor must be moved every two to three days to avoid bare spots.
Best Chicken Tractor Final Thoughts
So there you have it! Those are the top 5 best chicken tractors you can choose from.
There are more options out there, but it all boils down to your budget and what your chickens need.
If you feel like you’re not a handy person or don’t have time to DIY a chicken tractor, those are among the best deals for you.
However, they come at a considerable expense and several other disadvantages.
So, if you’d like to cut the cost and have a more durable chicken tractor for your flock, it’d be best to DIY it.
If you need a comprehensive guide for your chicken tractor project, check out the DIY article below.
Are there any plans for a chicken tractor without a coop? We have a nice coop and compound area but would like a one piece unit to easily move around the yard with 4 chickens.